Conspiracy Theorist David Icke has claimed his visa was revoked hours before he was due to fly to Australia for his latest tour.

Mr Icke, 66, is originally from Leicester and first became well-known as a footballer and a sports broadcaster.

But after he was visited by a psychic his career completely changed direction and he has now become world renowned for his controversial views on various topics, which includes his theory that the royal family are lizards.

The 66 year-old released a statement on Twitter stating that he was "shocked and appalled" after his visa was reportedly blocked by the Home Affairs Department in Australia.

No official sources have confirmed the cancellation of the visa and why, however ABC reported that the cancellation was 'on character grounds'.

"I have been a victim of a smear campaign"

The cancellation comes after Australian Labor candidate, Josh Burns, as well as Jewish community leader, Dvir Abramovich, sent requests to Immigration Minister David Coleman in January to cancel Icke's visa.

In the Twitter statement Icke said: "I have been a victim of a smear campaign from politicians who have been listening to special interest groups attempting to discredit my beliefs, my views and my character by spreading lies.

David Icke son of God holding his new book in 1995 (Image: Daily Record)

He then lists three points he wishes to clarify, which are: "I am not anti-semitic; I am not a Holocaust denier; I do not wish to have holocaust denial be taught in schools.

"With no shred of evidence, these ploys have worked.

"My previously approved visa accepted last September has been vetted by the highest levels of Government in Australia but has now been thrown out at the last hour."

"I urge Minister Coleman to reconsider"

Mr Icke was due to speak in Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Hobart and Sydney next month.

The future of the tour is now in doubt, and Mr Icke has pleaded with Immigration Minister David Coleman to change his mind.